The first sound we ever heard was our mother’s heartbeat: The rhythm of life. Each and every one of our ancestors came from a tribe of people who all sat around a fire and communicated through percussion, through rattles and drums. We all healed each other. We all took care of one another. We grieved the dead together and celebrated birth and life together. When we come into a Drum Circle, it is a sacred place where we welcome the light and heart of our ancestors through the drum. It is where we come together as brothers and sisters; without hatred and mistrust, but with respect and compassion. It is where we use our intention as a whole to heal one another and bring into focus the possibilities and potential of who we truly are.

How is a Raven Drum Circle Unique?

Raven Drum Circles are unique in that they are directed and supported with specific intentions of healing and empowerment. There is time for introspection and silence as well as energetic rhythms. All circles follow a specific format for healing that is supported and directed by the facilitators. Playing the drums is still improvisational and expressive but it is contained within a specific focus to benefit participants. It is deeply spiritual and emotional and the outcome can range from feelings of profound relief and joy to heartfelt release of tears. As much as participants put in; they will receive. Much like life itself, the circle will give you as much as you surrender into it. The more negativity we surrender, the more joy we receive.

Raven Drum Circles are facilitated through the principles of intention, rhythm, breathing and visualization. Each rhythm is played with a specific focus on healing; by releasing dis-ease and distress from the heart, mind and body. Participants who are drumming do not have to possess any drumming experience, only the desire to heal and empower their lives.

It has been studied and researched that drumming decreases stress, boosts the immune system and can aid in reprogramming pain patterns in the body. By supplementing this ancient form of healing with modalities such as mediation, visualization and breath work; we have seen amazing results. Participants have not only experienced a profound shift in their own hearts and minds, they also feel a more open connection to others. Drumming together promotes unity and interconnectedness within the circle and gives to everyone involved specific tools to help reduce stress and anxiety in lives after they leave the circle.

Teachers and facilitators of all Raven Drum circles and programs are highly qualified in the areas of the healing and expressive arts and are trained specifically to facilitate our drum circles.

Currently we are training local teachers in the Los Angeles area and will be taking our training workshops on the road in 2006-2007. If you work for or are affiliated with a local charity and feel that your organization may benefit from a Teacher’s Workshop please contact: info@ravendrumfoundation.org

Drums sponsored by REMO hand percussion instruments.

Raven Drum Foundation © 2006